APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Pennsylvania State University Department of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) is seeking to hire a Biosafety Officer. If you are passionate about biosafety and looking for an opportunity to make a significant impact within an academic institution, EHS encourages you to apply.
Our EHS team is committed to upholding the highest standards of safety and environmental stewardship throughout the university. As part of our team, you will have access to:
Collaborative Work Environment: Our team values collaboration and actively works together to solve complex challenges, fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere.
Professional Development Opportunities: We invest in our employees’ growth through training programs, workshops, and certifications, enhancing their skills and advancing their careers.
As a Biosafety Officer, you will:
Promote and support the comprehensive biological safety program at all Penn State University campuses
Engage with diverse stakeholders, including faculty, staff, and students, to promote best practices in biosafety
Support the development, implementation, management, and continual improvement of biosafety programs for the university.
Conduct comprehensive risk assessments and provide expert advice on biosafety issues.
Collaborate with researchers to ensure compliance with biosafety regulations and guidelines
Responsibilities include:
Supporting the University's biological safety program to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations and guidelines
Managing the University's Infectious Waste Disposal Program
Serving as an Alternate Responsible Official for the University in matters related to Select Agent research
Supporting the University's Bloodborne Pathogen Program
Evaluating and inspecting University buildings for potential mold-related issues
Developing and providing training both for the university community and for EHS staff
Serving on University committees, including but not limited to the Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), on matters of biological safety and regulatory compliance
Serving on the hazardous material spill response team and coordinating with EHS staff, campus units, police, fire, and contractors
The candidate must demonstrate in-depth knowledge of biological safety regulations and professional guidelines and keep abreast of regulatory changes through networking, seminars, continuing education, and the proactive investigation of scientific literature.
This position will assist in the biosafety programs at all University locations (including all Commonwealth campuses and research locations), except the Hershey Medical Center and College of Medicine.
Preferred Qualifications:
A degree in biology, microbiology, safety, or a related science.
Experience in a higher education setting is preferred
Research experience involving biohazardous material or infectious pathogens is preferred. Must demonstrate a commitment to a community where diversity and sustainability are valued.
Excellent organizational skills with the ability to multitask, and outstanding interpersonal skills with the ability to interact effectively with other departments are necessary.
Must submit to, pass, and maintain the Security Risk Assessment conducted by the U.S. Department of Justice for persons with access to Select Agents. This includes clearance by the FBI after the start of employment. If the selected candidate does not meet these requirements, they will be terminated.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree
6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $86,300.00 - $129,500.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging in all its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports both broad and specific equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.
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